Each year, the International Services Office teams up with TCU Football to teach incoming international students the Xs and Os of the American game of football. As part of the onboarding process, about a hundred students attend Football 101 where they get a taste of the game from both sides.
“In this event, students go on a tour through Amon G. Carter Stadium, learn the logistics of the sport, and throw the ball around,” said Paloma Bermudez, assistant director, International Services.
TCU Football partners to teach students how the score works, what a touchdown means and more.
“We love being able to share information about the sport of football with international students who might not have a lot of exposure to American football,” said Matt Lewis, assistant athletic director for player development. “We try to explain football at the basic level so that when they come out to cheer on the Frogs, they have a basis for what’s happening on the field.”
To get a sense of the game from the player perspective, they even try the uniform.
“I enjoy watching them try on the helmets and shoulder pads and how bulky the equipment is on them,” Lewis said. “It provides a little fun for them as they’re learning about football.”
Now, Bermudez said, they are excited for the students to experience other aspects of the culture: tailgating, songs and cheers … and watching a Horned Frog win.